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Fiat releases first 500e images, heading to L.A.

2013 Fiat 500e

To be showcased at American Music Awards this Sunday

Fiat has released the first two images of the upcoming 500e, ahead of the L.A. Auto Show.

Scheduled to go on sale sometime next year in California, the city car's EV version will also be showcased this Sunday at the American Music Awards. Judging by these official photos, not a lot has changed compared to the regular model, except for a different lower white front fascia, new wheels, aero underbody lip, lower side sills and possibly low-rolling tires. Moving inside there’s a white and orange theme, an updated gauge cluster and push buttons instead of the regular gear shifter.

The 2013 Fiat 500e could be powered by an electric motor with 100 hp (75 kW) and feature a lithium-ion battery. Further details about the car are not known at the moment, but reports are indicating that Fiat will lose about 10,000 USD for each unit. It seems that Chrysler will make this car only to meet California’s ZEV Mandate and to learn more about electric powertrains.

The all-new battery-electric Fiat 500e brings Italian flavor to the electric vehicle market with a unique combination of iconic 500 design, performance and range. The zero-emission Fiat 500e will premiere on the "green carpet" of the American Music Awards on Sunday, November 18, and will be showcased to the general public for the first time at the 2012 Los Angeles Auto Show. The Fiat 500e will be available in the state of California in 2013.